Clep College Composition

[CLEPitgirl]

In reply to question #1. When you go to the testing center, tell the test administrator that you want to take the pre-test tutorial. This is not a part of the actual test, but it will familiarize you with where everything is and how to use certian functions like copy and paste. (From what I remember I was able to copy and paste from the supplied sources only)

Question #2 I do not believe that you have to list additional sources cited after your essay. I didn't and I passed. I just wrote the essay and put " marks around anything I cited.

Question #3 I would stick to the normal essay format, which is indenting at the beginning of every paragraph. I think that they put a space there to make it easier for you to read. Just my opinion.

Just as a tip of advice, you should focus more on the quality of your essay, than the quantity of the words. The graders are looking for a well-structured, grammatically correct, logical, coherent essay.

To help with your speed try this: Print out some essay prompts and try not to read them. Put each one in an envelope and mix up the envelopes. Set a timer for 30 minutes and select an envelope, then start the timer and read your prompt. Upon reading your prompt form an opinion and type out 3-5 supporting points. (a word or phrase will suffice) Then arrange your points in a format where your second best is first and your best is last. Use this for your essay outline. Then type your indroductory paragraph, use one paragraph for each supporting point, and close with good summary/conclusion paragraph. When you are finished go back and proofread your essay, checking for grammatical errors and overall coherence. When the timer goes off immediately STOP typing. Then go over your essay. Evaluate where you spent the majority of your time, and if the time was well spent. Later pull a new envelope and try again. I went through about 3-5 envelopes a day for two weeks to prepare.

Here is a good formula for the 30 minute essay: 5 min spent reading your prompt, forming a position, and typing out 3-5 supporting points; 20 min actually writing the essay; and 5 min proofreading.

40 min essay: 10-15 min reading prompt and sources, form an opinion, and type out 3-5 supporting points; 20-25 min typing essay; 5 min proofreading

Here are some sites where you can find some practice essay prompts:
SAT Essay Topics: Practice your essay writing
GRE Revised General Test: Analyze an Issue

These should give you plenty of practice. I hope this helps.